The Sum of All Human Existence: A Quest for Meaning and Purpose
The sum of all human existence is a profound and complex phenomenon that we are still striving to understand. This exploration delves into the philosophical and existential aspects of human existence, eschewing materialistic explanations for more profound meanings.
Human Existence as Intentionality
Human beings emerge as a unique form of existence characterized by contrafactual causation, where the principle that causes must precede their effects does not always apply. This deliberate purposive action to change future states of affairs, achieved through planning and foresight, exemplifies teleological causation, as described by Aristotle. It is this capability to envision and act upon future possibilities that sets humans apart and propels us towards a destiny, one that we are responsible for shaping and understanding on a cosmic scale.
The Bible and Darwin: Contrasting Views
According to the Bible, God created mankind for the sole purpose of giving and receiving perfect love for eternity. This view emphasizes a spiritual and theological perspective, where human existence is imbued with purpose and meaning derived from divine creation and interaction.
Framed within the context of evolutionary theory, as championed by Charles Darwin, there is no inherent reason, purpose, or meaning for life. Evolutionary theory suggests that human life, like a tree, is an accident of nature. It argues that neither humans nor their activities have any objective reason for existing. Life is seen as the result of natural processes with no inherent purpose beyond ongoing survival and adaptation.
A Lifelong Journey of Progression and Struggle
From ancient times to the modern era, human history is marked by an endless cycle of warfare followed by brief periods of peace. These peaceful intervals, filled with remarkable advancements in art, science, industry, and technology, are often followed by renewed conflict, strife, and pain. At the core of this cycle is the inescapable reality of death, a constant reminder that technology and politics, no matter how sophisticated or influential, cannot defy the finality of mortality.
Our journey as humans can be traced through evolutionary steps, from exploring the natural world to developing tools and worshiping celestial bodies. Over time, as we learned to cultivate crops and settle in one place, we began to create and innovate, culminating in the brave new worlds of space exploration. This relentless quest to harness our environment and expand our horizons reflects our enduring drive for survival, understanding, and transcendence.
The Role of Love and Destiny
While evolutionary theory offers a materialistic explanation of human existence, many still seek to find deeper meanings, often turning to concepts like love and destiny. Love, as portrayed in biblical narratives, serves as a unifying force that imposes a coherent structure on the random chaos of life, providing a sense of purpose and connection. This perspective suggests that human existence is not merely a collection of random events but is infused with a higher purpose that can be fulfilled through love and responsibility.
Destiny, another critical element in understanding human existence, refers to the path or future that humans are believed to be heading towards. This concept emphasizes that our lives are not just a series of random occurrences but are shaped by intent and direction. While destiny may not be predetermined, the idea that we collectively have a role to play in the grand narrative of the universe can inspire us to strive for greater understanding and responsibility in our actions.
Conclusion
The sum of all human existence is multifaceted, encompassing the various perspectives of purpose, destiny, and the ultimate reality of mortality. By acknowledging both spiritual and scientific views, we can better navigate the complexities of our existence and seek a meaningful path forward. Whether through the lens of love, intentionality, or the relentless drive towards technological advancement, human existence remains a remarkable, evolving, and ever-searching phenomenon.